Publication Date
1-1-2023
Journal
Frontiers in Physiology
DOI
10.3389/fphys.2023.1281327
PMID
37929210
PMCID
PMC10620524
PubMedCentral® Posted Date
10-19-2023
PubMedCentral® Full Text Version
Post-print
Published Open-Access
yes
Keywords
dry eye, tear film, international space station, blink, eyelid, lacrimal duct, microgravity, spaceflight
Abstract
Long-duration spaceflight can have adverse effects on human health. One of the most common ocular conditions experienced by astronauts is dry eye disease (DED). Symptoms of DED include feelings of eye irritation, eye strain, foreign body sensation and blurred vision. Over 30% of International Space Station expedition crew members reported irritation and foreign body sensation. We reviewed the current literature on the prevalence and mechanisms of DED in astronauts and its potential implications for long-duration spaceflight, including the influence of environmental factors, such as microgravity and fluid shift on tear film physiology in space. DED has negative effects on astronaut performance, which is why there is a need for further research into the pathophysiology and countermeasures. As an in-flight countermeasure, neurostimulation seems to be among the most promising options.
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